In this episode of Security DNA, host Steve Lasky sits down with Tara Dunning, Vice President of Global Security and Network Infrastructure Sales and Strategy at Wesco, to explore how AI, IoT, and cloud technologies are transforming the role of today’s security integrators.

Discover how cameras are evolving from simple surveillance tools to powerful visual intelligence assets, why platform aggregation and data-driven security are redefining situational awareness, and what the next generation of digital transformation means for integrators, manufacturers, and end users alike.

Tara Dunning originally joined Wesco as VP of Global Security in 2021, where she scouted and evaluated new go-to-market opportunities and met emerging trends across verticals, segments, and geographies. She is currently Wesco’s VP, Global Security and Network Infrastructure Sales & Strategy.

Dunning has delivered transformative growth in the IT and OT industries over the course of her career. She has held multiple sales and strategy leadership positions at various distributors, manufacturers, and service providers across the globe. In addition to her work on SIA’s Board of Directors, Dunning has given back to the industry through over 15 years of service to various organizations that uplift female and multicultural voices.

Drones are reshaping U.S. critical infrastructure—but not always for the better. While they streamline inspections of power lines, pipelines, and bridges, rogue or malicious drones pose a real threat to airports, energy grids, and government sites. As these incidents rise, protecting vital systems has become an urgent priority.

Rodney Bosch, SIW Editor-in-Chief, invites Echodyne’s VP of Marketing, Leo McCloskey, to SecurityDNA to discuss executive orders, the critical role of radar in counter-drone operations, how easy drones are to buy (or build), and how to fortify our most critical sites against them.

As VP of Marketing, Leo leads Echodyne’s brand and marketing efforts, serving as the company’s representative on the Federal Aviation Administration’s Advanced Rulemaking Committees for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and Detection and Mitigation (383 D/M). He previously built and led marketing and product marketing teams throughout the U.S. and Europe at several companies ranging in size from small startups to established brands.

Leo is best known for his work with connected and autonomous vehicles, enterprise software, networks and cloud services, and end-user experience management. He has a BA in Russian and Soviet studies from Dickinson College and boasts a strong educational background in history and political science.

Join host Steve Lasky and Michael Niola, Principal and Co-Founder of The Consulting Group LLC, as they explore the future of integrated systems, AI in security, and designing safety into spaces from day one.

From “one card” access control to the challenges of data center speed-to-market, Michael shares insights on turning security from a cost center into a value driver, and why early collaboration with architects is key.

With over two decades of physical security industry experience developing master plans, system designs, and consultant teams, Michael Niola is a seasoned security veteran and frequent speaker at trade shows, most recently at HxGN Live Global. He is an expert in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) and holds Physical Security Professional (PSP) certification.

Michael is Co-Founder of The Consulting Group LLC, where he currently serves as Principal, bringing deep technical mastery to projects in healthcare, data centers, education, transportation, and corporate settings. He is passionate about the intersection of physical security, safety, and emerging technology.